1936 Indian Model 436

1936 Indian Model 436

A lot was happening in the American motorcycling scene in 1936. Harley introduced its 61 cubic inch OHV ‘Knucklehead being trumped a few months earlier by Albert Crocker and his fantastic V Twin creation. Indian was dramatically improving their Sport Scouts and also introduced a new engine to their 4-cylinder range. Indian designer G Briggs Weaver had redesigned the fenders the previous year giving the four a more contemporary look. For 1936 the somewhat controversial decision was made to arrange the inlet valves to the side and the exhaust to the overhead position reversing the previous layout. This meant that a Zenith updraught carburettor had to be used. (2 in 1937)

This configuration was only used in 1936 and 1937. While performance may not have been dramatically improved appearance was and in recent years these fours have found great favour with collectors.

Our bike was a long-time resident of mid-west USA where it was maintained in good running condition. Paddy Snowden used in the 2014 Great-Race which it completed in fine style. The bike was converted to 12 volt electrics some years ago but a freshly rebuilt 6 volt generator sits on the shelf for when the opportunity presents to return to the original specification